Sigma are well known for their accessibly priced models and at just under $1,100 the 150-500mm f5-6.3 APO seems like a promising alternative to the premium offerings from the camera makers. Although one of the older models in the firm’s range now, does it still have what it needs to compete with more modern rivals?

Introduced at the beginning of 2008, the Sigma 150-500mm f5-6.3 APO DG OS HSM (Nikon - Canon) is one of the older models in the maker’s range but it’s a promising model for wildlife and sports where portability and price are a concern. At $1069 it undercuts the slightly less ambitious 80/100-400mm models from Canon and Nikon (or Sony) without scrimping on features. As well as the extra versatility afforded by the longer focal lengths, the Sigma has four-stop image stabilization and a sonic-type AF motor.

The optical construction consists of 21 elements arranged in 15 groups and includes three low-dispersion glass elements for reducing the effects of chromatic aberration. As a lens intended principally for wildlife photographers it has a very useful minimum focus distance of 86.6” (2.2m) at all focal lengths and a maximum magnification of 1:5.2. With an 86mm filter thread and measuring 9.9 x 3.6” (252 x 94.7mm) it’s still relatively compact but at 62.8 oz (1,780g) it’s quite a weight.

Please note that we’ve yet to complete our assessment of the promising new SP 150-600mm f5-6.3 Di VC USD from Tamron, which was unveiled in November last year at $1,999 (though already available at around $999). However, our review will be posted soon.

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Comments

Sigma 150-500

I've had this lens for 3 years, used with a 5DmkII. For the price I think its a good buy, excellent OS and sharp wide open till about 350mm then you do need to close down to F8.0 to get reasonably sharp shots at 500mm. Yes there are better lenses out there but for a versatile 500mm with OS, I see nothing near it for the price. Well made.